WEIGHT. A quality in natural bodies, by which they tend towards the centre
of the earth.
2. Under the article Measure, (q.v.) it is said that by the
constitution congress possesses the power "to fix the standard of weights
and measures," and that this power has not been exercised.
3. The weights now generally used in the United States, are the same as
those of England; they are of two kinds:

4. These are the denominations of troy weight, when used for weighing
gold, silver and precious stones, except diamonds. Troy weight is also used
by apothecaries in compounding medicines; and by them the ounce is divided
into eight drams, and the drain into three scruples, so that the latter is
equal to twenty grains. For scientific purposes, the grain only is used, and
sets of weights are constructed in decimal progression, from 10,000 grains
downward to one-hundredth of a grain. The caret, used for weighing diamonds,
is three and one-sixth grains.
5. A short account of the French weights and measures is given under
the article Measure.

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